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Angela Merkel warns Greece that reform plan must add up - business live Angela Merkel warns Greece that reform plan must add up - business live
(35 minutes later)
3.06pm BST15:06
Back with the US, and more signs of an improving housing market.
Pending home sales rose 3.1% in February, according to the National Association of Realtors, compared to expectations of a 0.4% increase. This was the highest level in around 18 months.
But January’s figure was revised down from 1.7% to 1.2%.
2.59pm BST14:59
An update on the European Central Bank’s quantitive easing programme:
ECB Announce EUR41.016 Bln Settled In QE Purchases As Of March 27 (Prev EUR26.3 Bln)
2.52pm BST14:52
Wall Street opens sharply higher
US stock markets have opened strongly after a series of deals gave investors a lift.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average is up more than 250 points in early trading, while the S&P 500 has jumped by 1%, following news that insurer UnitedHealth was paying $12.8bn for pharmacy benefit firm Catamaran, Israeli pharmaceuticals group Teva would buy drug developer Auspex Pharmaceuticals for $3.5bn and Ireland’s Horizon agreed to buy US drugmaker Hyperion Therapeutics for $1.1bn.
Global markets were already on the front foot on hopes that China would introduce more stimulus measures to boost its economy.
Updated at 2.55pm BST
2.42pm BST14:42
Late on Friday, Fitch downgraded Greece’s default ratings and unsecured currency bonds from B to CCC, ahead of its next scheduled review on 15 May. It said:
Fitch believes that developments in Greece warrant such a deviation from the calendar and our rationale for this is laid out below.
It listed a number of reasons for the downgrade:
Lack of market access, uncertain prospects of timely disbursement from official institutions, and tight liquidity conditions in the domestic banking sector have put extreme pressure on Greek government funding. We expect that the government will survive the current liquidity squeeze without running arrears on debt obligations, but the heightened risks have led us to downgrade the ratings.
The damage to investor, consumer, and depositor confidence has almost certainly derailed Greece’s incipient economic recovery. The damage will take time to repair even if prospects for a successful programme completion improve over the coming days or weeks. We have revised down our growth forecast significantly to 0.5% this year from 1.5% in January 2015 and 2.5% in December 2014, with risks to growth on the downside. Liquidity conditions faced by firms will have worsened substantially, in our view, due to increased government arrears to suppliers and bank funding strains.
The agreement reached in February to extend the EFSF programme to end-June after several weeks of brinkmanship supports our base case scenario that Greece and its creditors will ultimately reach a compromise deal. However, progress since then has been slow. It is unclear when the earliest disbursement could take place and what will be required for this to happen.
In the coming days, Greece has been asked to submit a more detailed list of reforms to the Eurogroup. If this is accepted, it would bring the government closer to a partial disbursement before fully completing the programme review. However, in our view, it is likely that the Eurogroup will want the Greek government to demonstrate they have implemented some part of this list before funds are disbursed. This pushes back the probable disbursement date well into April at the earliest.
The full report is here.
2.00pm BST14:002.00pm BST14:00
Merkel: Greece's plan must "add up"Merkel: Greece's plan must "add up"
Over in Helsinki, Angela Merkel has warned that Greece’s reform programme must “add up”, while insisting that Germany wants to avoid Grexit.Over in Helsinki, Angela Merkel has warned that Greece’s reform programme must “add up”, while insisting that Germany wants to avoid Grexit.
And her counterpart, Alex Stubb, has told reporters that Greece cannot expect its aid conditions to be changed, and time is running out.And her counterpart, Alex Stubb, has told reporters that Greece cannot expect its aid conditions to be changed, and time is running out.
The German chancellor told a press conference that:.The German chancellor told a press conference that:.
“The question is can and will Greece fulfil the expectations that we all have...“The question is can and will Greece fulfil the expectations that we all have...
“There can be variation as far as which measures a government opts for but in the end the overall framework must add up.”“There can be variation as far as which measures a government opts for but in the end the overall framework must add up.”
Merkel added that she is waiting to see how the talks with officials from Greece’s creditors (taking place now) pan out:Merkel added that she is waiting to see how the talks with officials from Greece’s creditors (taking place now) pan out:
“We saw this in Ireland when a new government changed parts of the programme. But in the end the financial stability of the country must be restored. Greece is talking with the institutions now. We are waiting on these talks. And we will wait for the evaluation of the institution.”“We saw this in Ireland when a new government changed parts of the programme. But in the end the financial stability of the country must be restored. Greece is talking with the institutions now. We are waiting on these talks. And we will wait for the evaluation of the institution.”
(quote via Reuters). And here are more details:(quote via Reuters). And here are more details:
Updated at 2.09pm BSTUpdated at 2.09pm BST
1.29pm BST13:291.29pm BST13:29
Lunchtime summary: Clock ticking for GreeceLunchtime summary: Clock ticking for Greece
A quick recap.A quick recap.
Greek officials are sitting down with their creditors in Brussels for another round of talks over the country’s reform plans, as time continues to run short.Greek officials are sitting down with their creditors in Brussels for another round of talks over the country’s reform plans, as time continues to run short.
Greece had been expected to present a final programme by today. But after a weekend of talks on the proposals submitted on Friday, Athens appears as far away as ever from receiving any of the €7bn of bailout funds that are outstanding.Greece had been expected to present a final programme by today. But after a weekend of talks on the proposals submitted on Friday, Athens appears as far away as ever from receiving any of the €7bn of bailout funds that are outstanding.
Germany has insisted that Greece has not yet presented adequate plans, and cautioned that money won’t be released until reforms have been approved by the Athens parliament.Germany has insisted that Greece has not yet presented adequate plans, and cautioned that money won’t be released until reforms have been approved by the Athens parliament.
The Commission says that talks are continuing in an attempt to reach a credible and comprehensive conclusion.The Commission says that talks are continuing in an attempt to reach a credible and comprehensive conclusion.
Without a breakthrough, Greece is still expected to run out of funds in April.Without a breakthrough, Greece is still expected to run out of funds in April.
Ilya Spivak, Currency Strategist, at DailyFX, explains:Ilya Spivak, Currency Strategist, at DailyFX, explains:
“Investors fear that if external funding is not secured, a cash crunch and subsequent default may lead to the country’s exit from the Eurozone.“Investors fear that if external funding is not secured, a cash crunch and subsequent default may lead to the country’s exit from the Eurozone.
Such an outcome would be unprecedented, carrying with as-yet unknown implications for the financial markets at large.Such an outcome would be unprecedented, carrying with as-yet unknown implications for the financial markets at large.
Prime minister Alexis Tsipras is due to speak to the Greek parliament this evening, from 8pm local time or 6pm GMT.Prime minister Alexis Tsipras is due to speak to the Greek parliament this evening, from 8pm local time or 6pm GMT.
Members of his own Syriza party sound increasingly concerned about the situation, and unhappy that measures including privatisating Greece’s Piraeus Port are going ahead.Members of his own Syriza party sound increasingly concerned about the situation, and unhappy that measures including privatisating Greece’s Piraeus Port are going ahead.
Greece is proposing around €3bn of new tax revenue – partly from fighting tax evasion, and partly from raising VAT rates on Greece’s island and through a property tax he’d vowed to abolish. Its lenders, though, are concerned that the government is still not delivering reforms on pensions and the labour market.Greece is proposing around €3bn of new tax revenue – partly from fighting tax evasion, and partly from raising VAT rates on Greece’s island and through a property tax he’d vowed to abolish. Its lenders, though, are concerned that the government is still not delivering reforms on pensions and the labour market.
The uncertainty has weighed on Greek bonds today, pushing yields higher.The uncertainty has weighed on Greek bonds today, pushing yields higher.
On the economic front, though, the picture is brighter - with eurozone economic sentiment hitting a 44-month high.On the economic front, though, the picture is brighter - with eurozone economic sentiment hitting a 44-month high.
And the eurozone’s flirtation with negative inflation may be ending - Germany’s CPI has turned positive, while Spanish prices are falling at a slower rate.And the eurozone’s flirtation with negative inflation may be ending - Germany’s CPI has turned positive, while Spanish prices are falling at a slower rate.
1.12pm BST13:121.12pm BST13:12
German’s inflation rate has inched back into positive territory, in the latest sign that the eurozone is not sinking into a deflationary slump.German’s inflation rate has inched back into positive territory, in the latest sign that the eurozone is not sinking into a deflationary slump.
The German consumer prices index rose by 0.1% annually on a harmonised basis, with prices up by 0.5% month-on-month.The German consumer prices index rose by 0.1% annually on a harmonised basis, with prices up by 0.5% month-on-month.
Tomorrow we get the overall inflation figure for the eurozone, which is expected to rise from -0.3% to -0.1%.Tomorrow we get the overall inflation figure for the eurozone, which is expected to rise from -0.3% to -0.1%.
Updated at 1.13pm BSTUpdated at 1.13pm BST
1.00pm BST13:001.00pm BST13:00
Alexis Tsipras has reminded us that sixty-three years ago today, Greek communist and resistance hero Nikos Beloyannis was executed.Alexis Tsipras has reminded us that sixty-three years ago today, Greek communist and resistance hero Nikos Beloyannis was executed.
We honor the memory of the Greek resistance fighter, Nikos Beloyannis, who was executed on March 30, 1952 #Greece pic.twitter.com/ATNoFFJzQiWe honor the memory of the Greek resistance fighter, Nikos Beloyannis, who was executed on March 30, 1952 #Greece pic.twitter.com/ATNoFFJzQi
The arrest and subsequent death of Beloyannis, on espionage charges, provoked an international outcry, and was commemorated in this painting.The arrest and subsequent death of Beloyannis, on espionage charges, provoked an international outcry, and was commemorated in this painting.
12.53pm BST12:5312.53pm BST12:53
Heads-up. Angela Merkel is visiting Finland today, for talks with prime minister Alex Stubb.Heads-up. Angela Merkel is visiting Finland today, for talks with prime minister Alex Stubb.
He’s just given her a warm welcome to a rather chilly Helsinki.He’s just given her a warm welcome to a rather chilly Helsinki.
Kanzlerin #Merkel besucht finn. MP @alexstubb in Helsinki. Pressekonf ca 14 Uhr dt. Zeit live: http://t.co/KI8y6ZD9iW pic.twitter.com/iG39WszyOSKanzlerin #Merkel besucht finn. MP @alexstubb in Helsinki. Pressekonf ca 14 Uhr dt. Zeit live: http://t.co/KI8y6ZD9iW pic.twitter.com/iG39WszyOS
Press conference due soon, where they should discuss the state of the eurozone.Press conference due soon, where they should discuss the state of the eurozone.
Prime Minister @alexstubb and Chancellor #Merkel will discuss situation in Ukraine and matters relating to Russia and the euro area economy.Prime Minister @alexstubb and Chancellor #Merkel will discuss situation in Ukraine and matters relating to Russia and the euro area economy.
12.45pm BST12:4512.45pm BST12:45
Greece’s new president, Prokopis Pavlopoulos, is visiting Cyprus for his first official visit since taking office -- as is traditional for all new Greek presidents.Greece’s new president, Prokopis Pavlopoulos, is visiting Cyprus for his first official visit since taking office -- as is traditional for all new Greek presidents.
Pavlopoulos held talks with Cyprus’s president, Nicos Anastasiades (a veteran of Cyprus’s own bailout crisis). The two men have addressed the media, and pledged that the two countries’ ties will remain very strong regardless of the economic crisis.Pavlopoulos held talks with Cyprus’s president, Nicos Anastasiades (a veteran of Cyprus’s own bailout crisis). The two men have addressed the media, and pledged that the two countries’ ties will remain very strong regardless of the economic crisis.
Anastasiades told reporters that Cyprus backs the Greek government, saying:Anastasiades told reporters that Cyprus backs the Greek government, saying:
“We expressed our determination for the unwavering support of the Greek government in its effort to deal with the economic and humanitarian crisis.”“We expressed our determination for the unwavering support of the Greek government in its effort to deal with the economic and humanitarian crisis.”
12.00pm BST12:0012.00pm BST12:00
Tensions growing in Greece over reform plansTensions growing in Greece over reform plans
Over in Athens, heated debate over the government’s proposed reforms has prompted frantic negotiations within the ruling Syriza party.Over in Athens, heated debate over the government’s proposed reforms has prompted frantic negotiations within the ruling Syriza party.
Our correspondent Helena Smith reports:Our correspondent Helena Smith reports:
Demands for Greece to forge ahead with reforms have, more than ever, begun to weigh heavily on the governing Syriza party.Demands for Greece to forge ahead with reforms have, more than ever, begun to weigh heavily on the governing Syriza party.
Cadres are now speaking of “open warfare” among the various factions of the far-left group with militants holding back-to-back meetings in fury over perceived red lines being transgressed.Cadres are now speaking of “open warfare” among the various factions of the far-left group with militants holding back-to-back meetings in fury over perceived red lines being transgressed.
Officials coalesced around Energy Minister Panagiotis Lafazanis’s Left Platform, who are attached to unions and federations, are insistent that Syriza keeps to the anti-austerity programme on which it was elected. Many are saying openly that “rupture” with the euro zone would be preferable to “betraying voters” by rolling back on pre-election promises.Officials coalesced around Energy Minister Panagiotis Lafazanis’s Left Platform, who are attached to unions and federations, are insistent that Syriza keeps to the anti-austerity programme on which it was elected. Many are saying openly that “rupture” with the euro zone would be preferable to “betraying voters” by rolling back on pre-election promises.
The prospect of the government caving in to creditor demands for privatizations – following deputy premier Yannis Dragasakis’ announcement in China on Saturday that the Greek state will sell its majority stake in the port of Pireaus - has prompted the biggest backlash. Lafazanis came out all guns over the weekend rejecting denationalizations outright.The prospect of the government caving in to creditor demands for privatizations – following deputy premier Yannis Dragasakis’ announcement in China on Saturday that the Greek state will sell its majority stake in the port of Pireaus - has prompted the biggest backlash. Lafazanis came out all guns over the weekend rejecting denationalizations outright.
Theodoros Dritsas, alternate minister for shipping and the Aegean, who had announced that all privatisations would be cancelled before the government had even held its first cabinet meeting, also ratcheted up the pressure.Theodoros Dritsas, alternate minister for shipping and the Aegean, who had announced that all privatisations would be cancelled before the government had even held its first cabinet meeting, also ratcheted up the pressure.
“The position announced in the programme statements [of Syriza] regarding the issue of privatising the Pireaus port authority was clear,” he thundered reiterating that the leftist-led administration would never endorse the sale.“The position announced in the programme statements [of Syriza] regarding the issue of privatising the Pireaus port authority was clear,” he thundered reiterating that the leftist-led administration would never endorse the sale.
Dragasakis, who is in charge of economic policy, said he expected the sale of a 67% in the Pireaus Port Authority (OLP) to begin within weeks [sending its shares rallying this morning].Dragasakis, who is in charge of economic policy, said he expected the sale of a 67% in the Pireaus Port Authority (OLP) to begin within weeks [sending its shares rallying this morning].
China’s conglomerate, Cosco, which already runs two of the port’s piers, was likely to be the favoured bidder, he said. In a front page editorial this morning Ta Nea opined that just like its predecessors, the Syriza-dominated government would be forced to cave in to selling off the port.China’s conglomerate, Cosco, which already runs two of the port’s piers, was likely to be the favoured bidder, he said. In a front page editorial this morning Ta Nea opined that just like its predecessors, the Syriza-dominated government would be forced to cave in to selling off the port.
It wrote:It wrote:
“The Chinese have been here for some time – and it is accepted that their activities have worked positively for the wider region.”“The Chinese have been here for some time – and it is accepted that their activities have worked positively for the wider region.”
Prime minister Alexis Tsipras spent much of the weekend (and is likely to spend much of the debate in parliament tonight) trying to placate militants over the government’s moves.Prime minister Alexis Tsipras spent much of the weekend (and is likely to spend much of the debate in parliament tonight) trying to placate militants over the government’s moves.
11.25am BST11:2511.25am BST11:25
The European Commission’s top spokesman, Margaritis Schinas, is briefing Brussels journalists on the situation in Greece now.The European Commission’s top spokesman, Margaritis Schinas, is briefing Brussels journalists on the situation in Greece now.
Schinas has confirmed that the negotiations between the two sides are ongoing (reminder, they are due to restart in under an hour).Schinas has confirmed that the negotiations between the two sides are ongoing (reminder, they are due to restart in under an hour).
The goal of the talks is to deliver an economic reform programme that is “credible and comprehensive”, Schinas says.The goal of the talks is to deliver an economic reform programme that is “credible and comprehensive”, Schinas says.
And he adds that deputy finance officials (known as the eurozone working group) will discuss the issue on Wednesday.And he adds that deputy finance officials (known as the eurozone working group) will discuss the issue on Wednesday.
"We're not there yet," says @EU_Commission spox @MargSchinas on #Greece talks. #Understatement"We're not there yet," says @EU_Commission spox @MargSchinas on #Greece talks. #Understatement
Euroworking Group will have a teleconference on Wednesday to take stock of negotiations @MargSchinas #GreeceEuroworking Group will have a teleconference on Wednesday to take stock of negotiations @MargSchinas #Greece
11.00am BST11:0011.00am BST11:00
Germany: Greece hasn't submitted proposals yetGermany: Greece hasn't submitted proposals yet
Over in Berlin, the German government is warning that Greece has not yet submitted a firm list of proposals to its creditors.Over in Berlin, the German government is warning that Greece has not yet submitted a firm list of proposals to its creditors.
The finance ministry spokesman also cautioned that bailout funds will not be released until some measures have actually been approved by Greek MPs in Athens.The finance ministry spokesman also cautioned that bailout funds will not be released until some measures have actually been approved by Greek MPs in Athens.
Here’s the news flashes:Here’s the news flashes:
German FinMin spokesperson: #Greece hasn't submitted proposals to Euro area. Talks on reforms continuing. (BBG)German FinMin spokesperson: #Greece hasn't submitted proposals to Euro area. Talks on reforms continuing. (BBG)
Updated at 12.18pm BSTUpdated at 12.18pm BST
10.47am BST10:4710.47am BST10:47
Bank of England announces new stress testsBank of England announces new stress tests
Britain’s banks are to be tested on their ability to cope with a dramatic slowdown in China, a eurozone recession, the worse deflation since the 1930s and UK interest rates being cut to zero.Britain’s banks are to be tested on their ability to cope with a dramatic slowdown in China, a eurozone recession, the worse deflation since the 1930s and UK interest rates being cut to zero.
These new stress tests, just announced by the Bank of England, have a more international flavour than last year’s edition.These new stress tests, just announced by the Bank of England, have a more international flavour than last year’s edition.
However, they don’t include the specific risk of Greece leaving the euro.However, they don’t include the specific risk of Greece leaving the euro.
Our City editor Jill Treanor has just been briefed on the plans, and tweets:Our City editor Jill Treanor has just been briefed on the plans, and tweets:
BoE to stress banks for contraction the eurozone, slowdown in China along with deflation and zero interest rates in the UKBoE to stress banks for contraction the eurozone, slowdown in China along with deflation and zero interest rates in the UK
Cooperative Bank is not included in BoE stress tests this year as too small, seven others financial firms to be testedCooperative Bank is not included in BoE stress tests this year as too small, seven others financial firms to be tested
Updated at 10.58am BSTUpdated at 10.58am BST
10.45am BST10:4510.45am BST10:45
European Commissioner Pierre Moscovici has welcomed the jump in economic confidence:European Commissioner Pierre Moscovici has welcomed the jump in economic confidence:
Encouraging news: @ecfin #eurozone economic sentiment indicator at highest level since June 2011.Confidence returning http://t.co/L0G0gNe3vFEncouraging news: @ecfin #eurozone economic sentiment indicator at highest level since June 2011.Confidence returning http://t.co/L0G0gNe3vF
10.36am BST10:3610.36am BST10:36
This morning’s rise in economic sentiment means confidence is now at its highest since July 2011, points out Howard Archer of IHS Global Insight.This morning’s rise in economic sentiment means confidence is now at its highest since July 2011, points out Howard Archer of IHS Global Insight.
He adds:He adds:
A third successive, and markedly, increased rise in overall Eurozone economic sentiment to a 44-month high in March indicates that a more favourable growth environment in the Eurozone is increasingly being fostered by the much more competitive euro, low oil prices and major ECB stimulus.A third successive, and markedly, increased rise in overall Eurozone economic sentiment to a 44-month high in March indicates that a more favourable growth environment in the Eurozone is increasingly being fostered by the much more competitive euro, low oil prices and major ECB stimulus.
Consumer confidence across the Eurozone rose to a near eight-year high in March while sentiment improved in most business sectors.Consumer confidence across the Eurozone rose to a near eight-year high in March while sentiment improved in most business sectors.
10.28am BST10:2810.28am BST10:28
Italy has also reported an increase in economic confidence, suggesting that Europe’s economy is, finally, strengthening after several tough years.Italy has also reported an increase in economic confidence, suggesting that Europe’s economy is, finally, strengthening after several tough years.
#Euroboom2015 has now reached Italy. Only France and Greece left acc to economic sentiment indicator pic.twitter.com/VNwTSaDwEd#Euroboom2015 has now reached Italy. Only France and Greece left acc to economic sentiment indicator pic.twitter.com/VNwTSaDwEd
10.13am BST10:1310.13am BST10:13
European economic sentiment jumpsEuropean economic sentiment jumps
European companies are increasingly confident about their economic prospects, the EC’s latest survey has found.European companies are increasingly confident about their economic prospects, the EC’s latest survey has found.
The Commission’s economic sentiment index jumped to 103.9 this month, beating expectations.The Commission’s economic sentiment index jumped to 103.9 this month, beating expectations.
This “continues the upward trend observed since the beginning of 2015”, says the EC.This “continues the upward trend observed since the beginning of 2015”, says the EC.
It suggests that the ECB’s new stimulus programme, and the impact of weak oil prices, are cheering business leaders, and that Greece’s ongoing debt problems are not causing too much alarm.It suggests that the ECB’s new stimulus programme, and the impact of weak oil prices, are cheering business leaders, and that Greece’s ongoing debt problems are not causing too much alarm.
Consumer sentiment has also picked up, hitting an eight-year high (but still below its long-term average)Consumer sentiment has also picked up, hitting an eight-year high (but still below its long-term average)
Eurozone consumer sentiment improves from -6.7 in February to -3.7 in March. Economic sentiment rises from 102.3 to 103.9Eurozone consumer sentiment improves from -6.7 in February to -3.7 in March. Economic sentiment rises from 102.3 to 103.9
Updated at 10.23am BSTUpdated at 10.23am BST
10.00am BST10:0010.00am BST10:00
Britain’s housing market is picking up pace, according to new data from the Bank of England.Britain’s housing market is picking up pace, according to new data from the Bank of England.
Mortgage approvals hit a six-month high of 61,760 in February, up from 60,707 in January, and beating analyst expectations.Mortgage approvals hit a six-month high of 61,760 in February, up from 60,707 in January, and beating analyst expectations.
9.46am BST09:469.46am BST09:46
China’s main stock market has hit a seven-year high, driven by stimulus hopes.China’s main stock market has hit a seven-year high, driven by stimulus hopes.
Shares in infrastructure companied rallied after the government fleshed out its new “New Silk Road” plan to boost trade and economic relations with the rest of Asia, Africa and Europe.Shares in infrastructure companied rallied after the government fleshed out its new “New Silk Road” plan to boost trade and economic relations with the rest of Asia, Africa and Europe.
That plan will include hefty investment in railways, roads, power grids, oil and gas pipelines.That plan will include hefty investment in railways, roads, power grids, oil and gas pipelines.
Hints of more central bank stimulus measures (see earlier) also helped to push the Shanghai Composite index up by 2.6% to its highest level since March 2008.Hints of more central bank stimulus measures (see earlier) also helped to push the Shanghai Composite index up by 2.6% to its highest level since March 2008.
Updated at 9.48am BSTUpdated at 9.48am BST
9.36am BST09:369.36am BST09:36
Greek bond yields rise as bailout uncertainty swirlsGreek bond yields rise as bailout uncertainty swirls
The uncertainty over Greece’s financial situation is weighing on its bonds this morning.The uncertainty over Greece’s financial situation is weighing on its bonds this morning.
The yield (or interest rate) on 10-year Greek debt has inched up to 11.11%, from 11.04% on Friday nightThe yield (or interest rate) on 10-year Greek debt has inched up to 11.11%, from 11.04% on Friday night
And Greece’s two-year bond yields has risen from 20.4% to 20.8%, implying an even higher risk of default.And Greece’s two-year bond yields has risen from 20.4% to 20.8%, implying an even higher risk of default.
This follows the news that Greece still hasn’t presented an acceptable list of solid economic reforms to its lenders, despite the weekend’s negotiations.This follows the news that Greece still hasn’t presented an acceptable list of solid economic reforms to its lenders, despite the weekend’s negotiations.
One senior euro zone official told Reuters last night that:One senior euro zone official told Reuters last night that:
“Greece did not submit a reform list on Friday. They just showed some ideas over the weekend. The discussions from Friday to Sunday were meant to help the Greeks prepare a list for tomorrow.....“Greece did not submit a reform list on Friday. They just showed some ideas over the weekend. The discussions from Friday to Sunday were meant to help the Greeks prepare a list for tomorrow.....
We still look forward to receiving something on Monday.”We still look forward to receiving something on Monday.”
German TV news programme Tagesschau has heard a similar story this morning:German TV news programme Tagesschau has heard a similar story this morning:
#Greece's delegation at #BrusselsGroup presented reform proposals only in e-form for mobile devices and in Greek ~EU official to @tagesschau#Greece's delegation at #BrusselsGroup presented reform proposals only in e-form for mobile devices and in Greek ~EU official to @tagesschau
9.15am BST09:159.15am BST09:15
Greece’s stock market isn’t sharing in this morning’s rally. The main ATG index has dropped by 1.4% in early trading, with bank shares among the fallers.Greece’s stock market isn’t sharing in this morning’s rally. The main ATG index has dropped by 1.4% in early trading, with bank shares among the fallers.
But....shares in Piraeus Port Authority have jumped by 8.5%, following reports that the government will press on with plans to privatise it. Such a move will not please members of the Syriza party, though.But....shares in Piraeus Port Authority have jumped by 8.5%, following reports that the government will press on with plans to privatise it. Such a move will not please members of the Syriza party, though.
Updated at 9.22am BSTUpdated at 9.22am BST
9.08am BST09:089.08am BST09:08
Greece’s deputy finance minister Dimitris Mardas has insisted that the government hasn’t given up its demand for debt relief.Greece’s deputy finance minister Dimitris Mardas has insisted that the government hasn’t given up its demand for debt relief.
He told financial daily Naftemporiki that:He told financial daily Naftemporiki that:
“The government has not abandoned any claim regarding its aim to make the country’s debt viable..... either there will be a haircut or it will be extended, or ....linked to an increase in output or exports, or there will be a lower interest rate.“The government has not abandoned any claim regarding its aim to make the country’s debt viable..... either there will be a haircut or it will be extended, or ....linked to an increase in output or exports, or there will be a lower interest rate.
8.58am BST08:588.58am BST08:58
Greek talks to resumeGreek talks to resume
Talks between Greece and its creditors over its economic reform plans are due to start at 1pm in Brussels (or noon BST), according to the FT’s bureau chief Peter Spiegel:Talks between Greece and its creditors over its economic reform plans are due to start at 1pm in Brussels (or noon BST), according to the FT’s bureau chief Peter Spiegel:
"Brussels Group" talks on #Greece bailout to resume here at 1pm."Brussels Group" talks on #Greece bailout to resume here at 1pm.
Updated at 10.14am BSTUpdated at 10.14am BST
8.54am BST08:548.54am BST08:54
European stock markets are rallying in early trading, following Asia’s lead, on hopes of more stimulus measures in China.European stock markets are rallying in early trading, following Asia’s lead, on hopes of more stimulus measures in China.
The FTSE 100 has jumped 47 points, or 0.7%, to 6902. Germany’s DAX and France’s CAC indices are both up over 1%.The FTSE 100 has jumped 47 points, or 0.7%, to 6902. Germany’s DAX and France’s CAC indices are both up over 1%.
Traders are citing comments made by People’s Bank of China governor Zhou Xiaochuan over the weekend. He warned that China’s growth rate had fallen “a bit” too much and that policy makers have scope to respond. A hint of more central bank action?Traders are citing comments made by People’s Bank of China governor Zhou Xiaochuan over the weekend. He warned that China’s growth rate had fallen “a bit” too much and that policy makers have scope to respond. A hint of more central bank action?
8.46am BST08:468.46am BST08:46
Across the eurozone in Spain, prices are still falling, but at a slower rate.Across the eurozone in Spain, prices are still falling, but at a slower rate.
Spain’s harmonised consumer prices index dropped by 0.7% this month, data released this morning showed, compared with -1.2% in February.Spain’s harmonised consumer prices index dropped by 0.7% this month, data released this morning showed, compared with -1.2% in February.
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Alexis Tsipras to address parliament tonightAlexis Tsipras to address parliament tonight
Greece’s MPs will get an update on the situation this evening, when prime minister Alexis Tsipras addresses parliament.Greece’s MPs will get an update on the situation this evening, when prime minister Alexis Tsipras addresses parliament.
The session starts at 8pm local time, or 6pm BST, according to Enikos.The session starts at 8pm local time, or 6pm BST, according to Enikos.
Updated at 8.46am BSTUpdated at 8.46am BST
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Greece had hoped that eurozone finance ministers might meet this week to agree to hand over some aid funds.Greece had hoped that eurozone finance ministers might meet this week to agree to hand over some aid funds.
But that now looks unlikely, as Europe heads towards the Easter break.But that now looks unlikely, as Europe heads towards the Easter break.
According to Greek newspaper Kathimerini, a Eurogroup meeting is unlikely “next week or even the week after”.According to Greek newspaper Kathimerini, a Eurogroup meeting is unlikely “next week or even the week after”.
That could be problematic for Greece, as it is due to repay €450m to the IMF a week on Thursday.That could be problematic for Greece, as it is due to repay €450m to the IMF a week on Thursday.
Updated at 8.39am BSTUpdated at 8.39am BST
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The Agenda: Weekend talks don't deliver a breakthroughThe Agenda: Weekend talks don't deliver a breakthrough
Good morning, and welcome to our rolling coverage of the world economy, the financial markets, the eurozone and business.Good morning, and welcome to our rolling coverage of the world economy, the financial markets, the eurozone and business.
Another week of tension over Greece’s bailout lies ahead, as Athens struggles to persuade its creditors to unlock bailout funds before it runs out of money next month.Another week of tension over Greece’s bailout lies ahead, as Athens struggles to persuade its creditors to unlock bailout funds before it runs out of money next month.
The two sides spent the weekend locked in talks, over the reform proposals which the Greek government submitted on Friday night.The two sides spent the weekend locked in talks, over the reform proposals which the Greek government submitted on Friday night.
Athens appears to have made some concessions, including various measures to raise €3bn in extra taxes. But officials from ECB, IMF and and EU are apparently still not convinced that the plans go far enough.Athens appears to have made some concessions, including various measures to raise €3bn in extra taxes. But officials from ECB, IMF and and EU are apparently still not convinced that the plans go far enough.
Greek govt is still working on a plan to meet terms for further bailout; it may well miss its 450m euro IMF payment, says #SocGenGreek govt is still working on a plan to meet terms for further bailout; it may well miss its 450m euro IMF payment, says #SocGen
Negotiations between Greece and troika not going well. This is not going to be settled soon. http://t.co/5k79LAUuoqNegotiations between Greece and troika not going well. This is not going to be settled soon. http://t.co/5k79LAUuoq
The FT has a good take of the weekend’s talks.The FT has a good take of the weekend’s talks.
Greece struggles to accommodate lenders as cash dwindlesGreece struggles to accommodate lenders as cash dwindles
Here’ s flavour:Here’ s flavour:
Greek officials said Alexis Tsipras, the prime minister, had given ground on two key demands made by creditors: increasing value added taxes for Greek islands, a measure previously repudiated by Yanis Varoufakis, the Greek finance minister, and retaining an unpopular property tax that Mr Tsipras had vowed to abolish.Greek officials said Alexis Tsipras, the prime minister, had given ground on two key demands made by creditors: increasing value added taxes for Greek islands, a measure previously repudiated by Yanis Varoufakis, the Greek finance minister, and retaining an unpopular property tax that Mr Tsipras had vowed to abolish.
The property tax concession appeared to be the centrepiece of the new plan. It would raise an estimated €2.5bn of a predicted €3bn in new revenues, which Greek authorities estimated would put their primary budget surplus — the amount of revenue taken in, minus spending, not counting interest on debt — at almost €3.5bn for 2015.The property tax concession appeared to be the centrepiece of the new plan. It would raise an estimated €2.5bn of a predicted €3bn in new revenues, which Greek authorities estimated would put their primary budget surplus — the amount of revenue taken in, minus spending, not counting interest on debt — at almost €3.5bn for 2015.
But the list failed to include reforms to labour laws and Greece’s pension system — two areas that monitors have insisted are essential to finalising the bailout programme. They remained “red lines”, said Greek officials.But the list failed to include reforms to labour laws and Greece’s pension system — two areas that monitors have insisted are essential to finalising the bailout programme. They remained “red lines”, said Greek officials.
Prime minister Alexis Tsipras is standing firm too, insisting over the weekend that his government would not accept any “recessionary measures”, such as slashing wages or making it easier to fire workers.Prime minister Alexis Tsipras is standing firm too, insisting over the weekend that his government would not accept any “recessionary measures”, such as slashing wages or making it easier to fire workers.
And with Fitch downgrading Greece’s credit rating late on Friday night, investors are getting edgier...And with Fitch downgrading Greece’s credit rating late on Friday night, investors are getting edgier...
Also coming up today:Also coming up today:
The Bank of England is publishing details of new stress tests for Britain’s banks. They’re expected to assess if the banks have enough capital to handle global risks such as a foreign currency crisis, a geopolitical crisis and tumbling commodities and stock markets.The Bank of England is publishing details of new stress tests for Britain’s banks. They’re expected to assess if the banks have enough capital to handle global risks such as a foreign currency crisis, a geopolitical crisis and tumbling commodities and stock markets.
The latest Eurozone consumer confidence survey is due at 10am BST.The latest Eurozone consumer confidence survey is due at 10am BST.
And German inflation data is released at 1pm BST. It’s likely to show that prices are rising slightly year-on-year, after dipping into negative territory last month. Spanish inflation data is also out this morning.And German inflation data is released at 1pm BST. It’s likely to show that prices are rising slightly year-on-year, after dipping into negative territory last month. Spanish inflation data is also out this morning.
Updated at 1.17pm BSTUpdated at 1.17pm BST